Lawmakers in Thailand vote for a new prime minister this week. The leading Move Forward Party and its supporters rallied in Bangkok on Sunday ahead of the key decision.

Hundreds of people gathered to show their backing for Move Forward's leader, Pita Limjaroenrat, to become Thailand's next premier. Attention is focused on how senators -- handpicked by the military -- will vote.

Pita said, "Everyone -- all 750 parliamentarians -- has the chance to return normalcy to Thai politics."

The vote is set for Thursday. A candidate needs a majority in both chambers to become prime minister.

The progressive Move Forward and seven other coalition parties have more than half the seats in the Lower House. But it's unclear how the senators will cast their ballots.

The 42-year-old Pita wants to remove the military's influence from Thai politics. He urged lawmakers to respect voters' choice. His supporters echoed that call.

A male student said lawmakers should "show respect for democracy and help move Thailand forward."

A female pharmacist said she believes the senators will listen to the people.

Pita and his party's officials say they have enough support. But observers see the situation as uncertain.
Many members of the Upper House have been reluctant to show their hand.